AFCON 2025: What Wilfred Ndidi said after scoring first-ever Super Eagles goal in 73 games

After 73 caps and seven years of unwavering service to the Super Eagles, Wilfred Ndidi finally has his moment for Nigeria. 

The Leicester City midfielder scored his first-ever goal for Nigeria in Saturday's 3-2 victory over Tunisia, and his reaction was a masterclass in humility and focus.

The goal arrived five minutes into the second half from Ademola Lookman's teasing corner. While teammates and fans erupted in celebration of the long-awaited breakthrough, Ndidi's post-match message was characteristically understated, prioritising the team's progression over personal milestones.

"Happy to score my first goal last night!! and most importantly the win. Unto the next," Ndidi posted on social media, his words reflecting the no-nonsense mentality that has made him one of Nigeria's most dependable players.

For a player who has been the Super Eagles' defensive anchor through thick and thin, the 73-cap wait for a goal might have frustrated others. 

But Ndidi has never been about personal glory. His game is built on interceptions, tackles, and the unglamorous work that allows Nigeria's creative talents to flourish.

That Saturday's goal came as the captain made it even sweeter. Leading from the front, Ndidi attacked Lookman's delivery with the same determination he brings to every defensive duel, powering his header past Tunisia's goalkeeper to put Nigeria 2-0 up.

The timing couldn't have been better. With the Super Eagles cruising toward the Round of 16 and Ndidi wearing the armband, his maiden goal felt like validation of years spent sacrificing personal statistics for team success.

"Most importantly the win," he emphasised, and that's pure Ndidi, even in his moment of individual victory, the collective remains paramount.

With Uganda next on Tuesday, and Super Eagles already assured of qualification, Ndidi's words serve as a reminder that this team isn't satisfied with just reaching the knockouts.

For the captain, one goal in 73 games is enough celebration. Now it's back to business.